The Alleged Racial Slur That Has an Eighth-Grade Student Facing Hate Crime Charges

Felony charges have been filed against an Illinois eighth grader who is accused of committing a hate crime against a fellow student of Middle Eastern descent.

Omid Babakhani, 13, who is currently immobile because of two broken collarbones, says he is sure he is the victim of a hate crime because of an alleged racial slur uttered before being attacked.

“And I heard, ‘Hey Persian’ from behind me,” Omid recalled to WBBM-TV.

The Persian student underscored that he is certain it was a hate crime because "of how he said it to me and that he kept coming after me."

Omid Babakhani, 13, says he was the victim of a hate crime. (Image source: Screen grab via WBBM-TV)

As he attempted to just walk away, Omid continued to be attacked.

“He put me in a head lock and slammed me to the ground and repetitively started punching my head,” he said.

Now his family wants justice, saying Omid's competitive swimming future might be in jeopardy because of the injuries he sustained.

“It’s heartbreaking, but what can you do? You have to deal with it," his father told WBBM-TV.

“Omid doesn’t bother anyone," his mom echoed. "He is a good kid."

The child who allegedly attacked Omid is now facing felony hate crime and aggravated felony charges, according to WBBM-TV.

He is reportedly in custody at a juvenile detention center.

This story has been updated.